Quake marks its 30th anniversary with Dawn of the Machine, a brand-new free campaign co-developed by MachineGames and the original creators, id Software. Unveiled at QuakeCon 2026 on August 6, this expansion is available to play right now.

What's Included in the Campaign

• 19 all-new maps combined into one cohesive campaign
• A brand-new original soundtrack
• A separate Deathmatch map
• New achievements and trophies
• Twisted variants of classic Quake monsters: Rocket Ogre, Demo Dog, Blood Shambler
• New weapons: the ricocheting Laser Cannon and the lightning-charged Super Axe

Story Overview

Players once again step into the boots of Ranger, this time trapped in a mysterious cyclical dimension where time folds in on itself. Collecting runes unlocks previously closed paths, and permanent health and ammo upgrades add a new progression layer to classic Quake gameplay. Every run reshapes your future routes, encounters, and secrets.

Where to Play for Free

Dawn of the Machine is completely free for anyone who owns the 2021 Quake remaster. The content is instantly available on the following platforms:

• PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4
• Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One
• PC (Steam, Microsoft Store), Xbox Game Pass, PC Game Pass
• Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2 (with backward compatibility)

MachineGames' Legacy with Quake

This marks MachineGames’ third major contribution to the series, following the critically acclaimed Dimension of the Machine and Dimensions of the Past expansions. Senior level designer Andrew Yoder shared that the team aimed to stay true to the original spirit of Quake—horror, action, and chaos—while offering something fresh for veteran players. Known for modern Wolfenstein titles and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, the studio’s experience with puzzle-driven adventures is reflected in the campaign’s time loop concept.

If You Don’t Own It Yet

Quake and its sequel Quake II are currently on sale at the PlayStation Store, with discounts up to 60 percent in some regions, making it possible to grab them for just a few dollars. If you want to try out the new content but don’t own the game yet, now’s a great time to jump in.

You can get Quake or the discounted Quake II without sharing credit card details by topping up your account funds. Use a PlayStation Store gift card to start exploring Dawn of the Machine instantly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to pay to play Dawn of the Machine?

No, the campaign is completely free for anyone who owns the 2021 remaster of Quake.

Do I have to finish the original Quake first?

There’s no strict requirement according to official sources. The campaign features its own independent episode hub, so you can jump in directly.

Can I play on Switch 2?

Yes, the content is available on Switch 2 with backward compatibility.